The new digital communications system is intended to improve police command equipment, not hinder media coverage, Commissioner of Police Dick Lee says, stressing his willingness to cooperate and continue discussions with the media to enhance dissemination of news.

Speaking on a radio programme this morning, Mr Lee said Police handle thousands of cases everyday and it would not be feasible to issue information of each and every case through the webpage. So, the criteria of public interest will be adopted in selecting cases for release.

Starting yesterday, the new system has been running in the New Territories regions. Referring to individual cases where the issue of data has been delayed for a few hours, Mr Lee said there are teething problems. He said he would continue discussions with the media to enhance the arrangements.

He said although the media could previously intercept police communications, just because they had become accustomed to the practice did not mean it was right.

Recruitment, training to get a boost

On manpower, Mr Lee said the Police shortage will become serious in 2007-08 with an estimate of around 1,000 staff leaving the force. So, there is a need to boost recruitment with an aim to attract about 500 to 700 in the next few years.

He said there is plan to upgrade the Police Training School to an academy, offering courses jointly with universities on academic and theoretical training, adding trainees could get credits that are recognised by the universities concerned for further studies.

Mr Lee said as demands on policing work increase and the cases handled grwo more complicated, upgrading police training to raise service quality is needed.

Family violence database ready next year

On the handling of family violence cases, Mr Lee said a database of these cases will be set up early next year to help frontline staff trace records faster. Training to identify potential hazards and handle such cases has been reinforced.

As there will be a number of international events to be held in Hong Kong next year, such as the World Trade Organisation's ministerial meeting, Mr Lee said police have the confidence and experience in handling demonstration activities.

He added as the possibility of terrorist attacks is medium to low, and with a well established intelligence network, the Police are capable of carrying out anti-terrorism works to ensure smooth running of the events.